Thursday, October 5, 2017

Gizmodrome (2017), by Gizmodrome

If you're a fan of Stewart Copeland's unique and distinctive talents as a drummer, soundtrack composer, and – yes – vocalist, you will absolutely love this album.

The Police, Animal Logic, and Oysterhead percussionist has enlisted the services of some of the best musicians in the business, resulting in one of the most exhilarating and whimsical progressive world rock releases ever.

Adrian Belew is, as usual, a trippy delight with his psychedelic acid rock electric guitar flourishes, as well as backup and occasional vocals. And while I'm not familiar with the work of Mark King, his performances here on bass and backup vocals are on the level. Rounding out the quartet is Vittorio Cosma on keyboards.

There is a palpable African influence on many of the songs, recalling Copeland's Rhythmatist and Leopard Son soundtrack albums. Traces of his Equalizer and other film and television themes can also be heard.

But even as the album features iconic elements of Copeland's and his band members' past work, the music is fresh, visceral, and ear-opening.

This is one supergroup that's really super.

--Raj Manoharan

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